**Iran Rebuffs Trump's Claim of Seeking Deal, Cites Lack of Basis for Talks** In a recent statement, the Iranian government has rejected former US President Donald Trump's assertion that he wanted to negotiate a deal with them. The Iranian government believes that Trump's claim is a mere attempt to justify his administration's actions, and they see no reason to engage in talks. This development comes amidst ongoing tensions between Iran and the international community, particularly with regards to its nuclear program. The US, under Trump's leadership, had imposed harsh sanctions on Iran in an effort to curb its nuclear ambitions. However, Trump has now claimed that he was prepared to make concessions to reach a deal with Iran, but that they were not willing to compromise. Iran's top diplomat, Ali Akbar Salehi, has dismissed Trump's claim as a fabrication. He stated that the Iranian government was only defending its people and protecting its sovereignty, and that there was no basis for talks. Salehi emphasized that Iran's position on its nuclear program is clear, and that it will not be swayed by external pressure. This stance is in line with Iran's long-held position that its nuclear program is for peaceful purposes, and that it will not be intimidated by threats or sanctions. The country has consistently maintained that it will not compromise on its right to nuclear technology, and that any deal must be based on mutual respect and equality. The rejection of Trump's claim is also seen as a blow to the US's efforts to revive the 2015 Iran nuclear deal, which was abandoned by Trump in 2018. The deal, known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), had lifted sanctions on Iran in exchange for its agreement to limit its nuclear activities. However, since the US withdrawal, Iran has begun to breach some of the deal's key provisions, including the limit on uranium enrichment levels. The current US administration has expressed interest in reviving the deal, but Iran has made it clear that it will not return to the negotiation table unless its demands are met. In a Naija context, this development can be seen as a reflection of the complexities of international diplomacy and the competing interests of nations. While the US and Iran may have differing views on a potential deal, the Iranian government's focus on defending its people and sovereignty is a testament to its commitment to protecting its national interests. As the global community continues to grapple with issues of nuclear proliferation and non-proliferation, the Iran-US standoff serves as a reminder of the delicate balance of power in international relations.